Integrative Clinical Social Work Practice: A Contemporary Perspective

by F. Diane Barth

In recent history the practice of medicine and mental health has been increasingly eclectic as more and more practitioners harness seemingly disparate therapies and techniques to arrive at clinical breakthroughs. But while social work professionals have been involved in integrative practice informally and intuitively for years, resources to bring structure to this therapeutic concept have been few and far between. In response, Integrative Social Work Practice offers innovative ways of conceptualizing cases, communicating with clients and making better therapeutic use of client individuality. Rich in research, evidence-based and clinical material from a variety of settings, the book begins with the basic organizing principles behind effective integrative practice. Real-world examples flesh out the theoretical rationales and psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral and developmental methods are shown in practical context. The author also demonstrates how to balance flexibility and boundaries and manage diverse and even conflicting theories, while providing clear guidelines An important step forward in both professional development and the larger therapeutic picture, Integrative Social Work Practice benefits researchers and practitioners as well as supervisors and students in social work and counseling.

183 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 2014

Reviews

[Alona Perlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mixed review

Honestly, I enjoyed reading this text but it was not what I expected. There was not enough on specific different clinical interventions. It felt repetitive and most parts were intuitive. In that, it’s information that’s already widely known.